TikTok explores peer-to-peer payments via DMs
Original: TikTok explores peer-to-peer payments via DMs, report says
Why This Matters
TikTok's potential P2P payments entry signals major social platforms competing for fintech market share.
TikTok is developing a feature to let users send money via direct messages using TikTok Pay, according to Bloomberg. Code references were found in the current U.S. iPhone app, with a "tap to accept" mechanism similar to Venmo. TikTok stated the feature is not being tested.
According to a Bloomberg report, TikTok is in early development of a peer-to-peer payment feature embedded within its direct messaging system. Code discovered inside the current version of TikTok's U.S. iPhone app references a "tap to accept" payment flow, with the ability for senders to attach messages — functionality similar to Venmo. The feature would leverage TikTok Pay, TikTok's existing payment infrastructure already available in Southeast Asia for TikTok Shop transactions. TikTok told Bloomberg the feature is not currently being tested, indicating it remains at an early stage with no confirmed release timeline. This is not TikTok's first fintech move: Reuters reported earlier in 2026 that TikTok applied to Brazil's central bank for approval to operate as a fintech company offering lending and payment services. TikTok has steadily expanded beyond social media into areas such as e-commerce, search, local discovery, gaming, and hotel bookings. If launched, the P2P payment feature would place TikTok in direct competition with Venmo and Zelle. X also recently entered this space with the launch of X Money.